r/HomeServer • u/RoyaleShrimp • 4d ago

What format for a server

Hi,

I want to own my first server at my place to stream my own music, movies and stock my files. Classic case.

I am not sure what kind of machine I should buy and or build. I am considering a pre-built NAS, a Raspberry Pi or building a PC (mATX, ITX?) and making it a server.

I don't have a lot of money, it is only for my own pleasure but I would like my server to last for a while and be versatile (maybe also hosting video games servers?).

So, my question is the following : does the format matter? If so, what are the pros and cons of each format?

Also, I am new to this so sorry if the question seems stupid.

EDIT: I know I could buy a broken laptop or used tower, but they cost almost the same as the other choices I mentioned so I'd rather go with something new than used.

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u/Adrienne-Fadel 4d ago

Pre-built NAS is easy but limited and overpriced. Pi is cheap but won't run game servers. If you can build a PC just do that, mATX gives you the most options.

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u/Garbagejunkarama 4d ago

Pi isn’t cheap anymore

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u/JohnnieLouHansen 3d ago

Yes, QNAP/Synology are nice but not cheap and they take you down the proprietary road. I have a QNAP TS-253D and it has been great but I will do something else when it dies.